Leading the four-match series 2-1, Australia won the toss and decided to bowl first in the match, but little did they know that their decision would soon be met with an onslaught from the South African batters.
A firework display of cricket from South Africa
South Africa’s innings were nothing short of extraordinary. They amassed a staggering total of 416/5, with contributions from several key players. Quinton de Kock opened the innings with a steady 45 off 64 balls, setting the stage for the fireworks that were about to follow. Rassie van der Dussen chipped in with a crucial 62 off 65 balls.
However, the highlight of the day was Klaasen’s unforgettable performance. Klaasen unleashed a furious onslaught on the Australian bowlers, smashing his way to a remarkable 174 runs from just 83 deliveries. What made this innings even more special was the fact that Klaasen reached his century in just 57 balls, making it his second-fastest century and third overall in ODI cricket. It was a masterclass in aggressive batting that left the fans in awe.
David Miller played a vital supporting role, adding 82 runs from just 45 balls to further compound Australia’s misery. Josh Hazlewood managed to pick up two wickets for Australia, but the damage was already done.
Also READ: Twitter erupts as England’s Dawid Malan lights up Lord’s with a brilliant century in the 4th ODI against New Zealand
Adam Zampa’s nightmare
The starkest contrast of the day was seen in the performance of Australian spinner Adam Zampa. He bowled his full quota of 10 overs and conceded a whopping 113 runs. This performance equalled the embarrassing record of former Australian bowler Mick Lewis for delivering the joint-most expensive figures ever in an ODI.
Twitter erupts in celebration and lauds Heinrich Klaasen
As Klaasen went on his rampage mode, Twitter erupted in celebration. Cricket fans from all over the world took to social media to express their amazement and admiration for the South African batter. The sheer power and precision of his strokes left everyone spellbound.
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
Heinrich Klaasen's classy 174!
He is one of the top middle-order batters in the world right now with this form.
What a player
What a knock#SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/NlKEiGGWpv
— DK (@DineshKarthik) September 15, 2023
When there's a rise in the strike-rate, remember there's a Riser named Klaasen on the field!
off just 57 balls!
#SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/wGBQQGoLZh
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) September 15, 2023
Highest ODI score at 200+ strike rate:
174 – Heinrich Klaasenv AUS, TODAY
162* – AB de Villiers
162* – Jos Buttlerv NETH, 2022
149 – AB de Villiers
— Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) September 15, 2023
South Africa have amassed 416/5 from their 50 overs against Australia. They smashed 259 runs from the last 18 overs only
Klaasen 174(83) & Miller 82*(45) stood out in the do-or-die match#SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/1DkEgeCXOv
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) September 15, 2023
This is brutal Display of Batting by Klaasen https://t.co/W3PIbgib8p
— CA. Sahil Maheshwari(@SahilMaheshwa18) September 15, 2023
Quite a terrific comeback by South Africa this, won the last one and now absolute thrashing by Klaasen…….this guy has had an amazing year right from SA20, IPL and in International Cricket#SAvAUS
— Sanskar Gemawat (@thatSanskariGuy) September 15, 2023
164 runs in the last 9 overs by Klaasen and Miller – 14 sixes, 11 fours. A brutal show! Wtfpic.twitter.com/DP86VkgJsg
— Aman Vai (@Amandhyaniok) September 15, 2023
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